Sabu, the legendary figure in professional wrestling known for redefining hardcore wrestling, has passed away at the age of 60. The news comes just weeks after he wrestled his final match against Joey Janela—billed as his “retirement match”—marking the end of a career that spanned decades. WWE confirmed Sabu’s death in an official statement released on May 11. A three-time World Heavyweight Champion, Sabu was widely regarded as one of the most innovative and fearless performers of his time.
Who was Sabu?
The nephew of WWE Hall of Famer The Sheik, he rose to fame in the ’90s as a cornerstone of ECW, where he pioneered a brutal, high-risk wrestling style that involved leaping off chairs, smashing opponents through tables, and even using barbed wire. Throughout his ECW run, Sabu delivered unforgettable matches against legends like Rob Van Dam, Mick Foley, The Sandman, and his most iconic rival, Tazz. In 2006, he brought his signature chaos to the WWE stage during the company’s ECW revival, battling top stars like John Cena and Rey Mysterio in championship bouts. One of Sabu’s most memorable moments came at WrestleMania 23 in his hometown of Detroit, where he joined fellow ECW Originals—The Sandman, Tommy Dreamer, and Van Dam—to secure a landmark win in front of over 80,000 fans. The name “Sabu” itself was a tribute to Indian-American actor Sabu Dastagir, a Hollywood star from the 1930s and ’40s. His uncle, The Sheik, admired Dastagir’s portrayal of exotic, larger-than-life characters and felt the name suited his nephew’s enigmatic, no-nonsense in-ring persona.
“Sabu will never be forgotten”
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from fans and fellow wrestlers across the globe. Social media was flooded with heartfelt messages celebrating Sabu’s contribution to wrestling history. A user wrote, “RIP Sabu One of my favorites when I was 10 years old the first ECW match I ever watched was Sabu and Taz in 97 he will be missed rest, easy hard-core legend.” Another added, ” I can’t believe this news. How tragic. Respect and condolences to Sabu. Heartbroken.” Echoing the sentiment, a user claimed, ” So sad and still so young. RIP you absolute legend.” Meanwhile, one user noted, “RIP Sabu innovator and absolute legend, sad to hear about his passing!.” “A hardcore legend gone too soon. Rest in peace, Sabu,” added another. “One of my favorite wrestlers growing up. RIP legend,” mourned a user.